Bromoethane: Formula, Structure, and Uses

In organic chemistry, Bromoethane is an important member of the haloalkane (alkyl halide) family. It is widely studied in Class 11 and 12 Chemistry as a primary starting material to synthesize more complex organic compounds.

Question (Click to Flip)

Is bromoethane heavier than water?

Answer

Yes, bromoethane is denser than water. If mixed with water, it will form a separate layer at the bottom of the test tube.

Card 1 of 1 free previews

Key Facts

Because bromine is much more electronegative than carbon, the C-Br bond is highly polar, making the carbon atom slightly positive and susceptible to nucleophilic attacks.

If bromoethane is boiled with aqueous potassium hydroxide (KOH), it converts back into ethanol.

If boiled with alcoholic KOH, it undergoes an elimination reaction to form ethene gas.

1. Formula and Names

Chemical Formula: $C_2H_5Br$ (or $CH_3CH_2Br$)
IUPAC Name: Bromoethane
Common Name: Ethyl bromide

2. Structure

Bromoethane consists of an ethyl group ($C_2H_5$) bonded to a Bromine atom ($Br$). It looks like an ethane molecule ($C_2H_6$) where one of the hydrogen atoms has been substituted by a bromine atom.

3. Preparation

The most common laboratory method to prepare bromoethane is by reacting ethanol (ethyl alcohol) with hydrobromic acid (HBr) or with phosphorus tribromide ($PBr_3$).

Reaction: $CH_3CH_2OH + HBr \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4} CH_3CH_2Br + H_2O$

4. Key Properties and Uses

Physical State: It is a colorless, highly volatile, and flammable liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor.
Solubility: Like most haloalkanes, it is insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents (like alcohol and ether).
Uses: In organic synthesis, it is used as an ethylating agent (a chemical that adds an ethyl group to other molecules). In the past, it was used as a surgical anesthetic, but this was stopped due to its toxicity.

Questions and Answers

Is bromoethane heavier than water?+

Yes, bromoethane is denser than water. If mixed with water, it will form a separate layer at the bottom of the test tube.

More in Chemistry

⚗️

List of the First 20 Elements of the Periodic Table

Memorize the first 20 elements of the periodic table. View the complete list with their atomic numbers and symbols, essential for basic high school chemistry.

⚗️

The First 20 Elements of the Periodic Table

Learn the first 20 elements of the periodic table. Memorize their atomic numbers, symbols, and discover a simple mnemonic trick to remember them easily.

⚗️

First 30 Elements of the Periodic Table — Names and Symbols

Learn the first 30 elements of the periodic table with names, symbols, and atomic numbers. Complete list for Class 10 and 11 Chemistry with memory tricks.

⚗️

First Order Reaction Formula and Kinetics

Learn the mathematical formula for a first-order chemical reaction. Understand the integrated rate law, the rate constant (k), and the half-life equation.

⚗️

Fitkari ka Formula (Chemical Formula of Alum)

Find the chemical formula of Fitkari, also known as Potash Alum. Learn its chemical name and common uses in water purification and shaving.

Study Smarter with Shinyu.ai

Turn this guide into revision flashcards, a practice exam, or an AI-generated podcast — free, no signup required.